Branson Wayne Phelps, 17, of Townsend, Montana, formerly of Ashton, passed away September 12, 2015 in a tragic automobile accident. Branson was born April 21, 1998 to Teresa Phelps and Eric Phelps.

Branson always enjoyed being outdoors and loved hunting and fishing from the time he was a little boy. In 2011, he moved to Townsend, MT with his mother where he has lived ever since.

He attended Broadwater High School. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing. He lived every moment of his life to the fullest. There was never a dull moment when Branson was around. He was surrounded by a loving family and tons of friends. He was always spontaneous and had a great sense of humor, and always had everyone laughing. All his nieces and nephews loved spending time with him. He could always make them laugh.

Branson is survived by his father; Eric Phelps; mother and step-father, Teresa Phelps and John Rushford; sisters, Erika Phelps, Lacy Phelps; brothers, Dacoda Phelps and Hayden Rushford; grandparents Kent & Gayle Fisher, Leslie Bigler, Doyle and Bea Phelps, Ginny and Steve Rushford and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was greeted on the other side by many loved ones and dear friends.

Funeral services will be at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, September 17, at the Broadwater High School Gymnasium, 201 N. Spruce Street, Townsend, Montana. A reception will follow the funeral service at the 4-H Building in Townsend.

Branson's family will also receive friends and family on Saturday, September 19, from 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. at Baxter Funeral Home in Ashton.